The Union Square neighborhood was formerly all of Somerville in 1842. In 1853 the neighborhood raised a liberty flag and became known as “Liberty Pole Square.” It adopted a new name shortly after, Union Square, to represent the Union Army recruitment station it hosted during the Civil War.
Then situated at the intersection of a railroad, Union Square served as a commercial and meatpacking district, a hub for businesses. It eventually became the birthplace of Marshmallow Fluff (more on that below).
The neighborhood is full of sweet surprises beyond its interesting history, check out s’more of our favorite things to do in Union Square, Somerville:
1. Try the original Union Square Donuts
The name should be a giveaway, but Josh Danoff and Heather Schmidt founded the staple donut shop in 2013, with the original location opening in Union Square. It’s since moved to a different storefront, but fun to visit the neighborhood where it all started. Due to the popularity of the donuts, they’ve since expanded to multiple locations throughout the city! Our favorite is the Brown Butter Hazelnut donut.
Find it at 20 Bow St, Somerville, MA 02143
2. Enjoy a bonfire at Bow Market
Around the corner is Union Square’s quaint marketplace, in a cozy indoor-outdoor brick enclave! Bow Market features rotating restaurants, gift shops, and artisan to explore. For the perfect outing, book Bow Market’s outdoor bonfire seating for a cozy night.
Find it at 1 Bow Mkt Wy, Somerville, MA 02143
3. Grab brunch at Juliet
From the Smoked Salmon Toast with Tamarind Chutney to the impeccable morning buns, Juliet is one of those spots you need to try at least once as a Bostonian. You’ll be hooked, and coming back for their equally impressive lunch and dinner offerings.
Find Juliet at 263 Washington St; Somerville, MA 02143
4. Savor Peruvian chicken and yucca at Machu Picchu
Speaking of delicious bites, Union Square as a neighborhood as some of the most diverse and delicious food purveyors. You’ll find authentic Thai across the street from specialty ice cream, across from a Peruvian chicken shop. The succulent chicken and crunchy yucca with house Aji Verde is an excellent dine-in or takeout option.
Find Machu Picchu at 307 Somerville Ave, Somerville, MA 02143
5. Take a tour of the Taza Chocolate Factory
Who needs the Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory, when Somerville has its own? Chocolate factory tours at Taza start from just $13 and you’ll get to see how this award-winning, nationally recognized chocolate is made right in Somerville. And of course, you’ll get to sample a few flavors.
Where: 561 Windsor Street, Somerville, MA 02143
6. Enjoy deep belly laughs at Union Comedy
The intimate 30-seat black box theater specializes in longform improv. Catch rotating acts, and get ready to “laugh your butt off.” In November, performers will partake in the 2024 Union Improv Festival at The Rockwell from November 14-16.
Find it at 593 Somerville Ave, Somerville, MA 02143
7. Check out the Prospect Hill Monument
This four-story monument built from iron and stone appears to be a piece from a missing castle. Prospect Hill served as George Washington’s command post during the Siege of Boston in the American Revolution, however, the monument itself was built in 1903.
Find Prospect Hill Monument at 68 Munroe St, Somerville, MA 02143
8. Bike the Minuteman Trail
This 10-mile bike path travels from Bedford Center to Alewife, passing Union Square on the way! It’s a beautiful path year-round, among trees and traveling through different towns. It’s especially charming when taking in the fall foliage.
Here’s a nifty Map of the Minuteman Trail
9. Shop local at the 20th Annual Union Square Farmer’s Market
Rain or shine, stock up on fresh produce and provisions from local farmers and vendors. Find juicy tomatoes, succulent peaches, and more at the different stands! You’ll also find fresh fish and fresh pastries.
When: Saturdays May 11 through October 26, 2024 from 9 AM-1 PM
10. Celebrate the annual Somerville Fluff Festival
A Fluff Festival is exactly what it sounds like. Modern Fluff, the sticky deconstructed marshmallow, came to fruition in 1917 Union Square by Archibald Query. Four years prior, confectioner Emma Curtis invented “Snowflake Marshmallow Crème.” The annual festival’s commemorated the legendary confection since 2006. Events at this year’s “Shenanigans Stage” include fluff jousting, fluff musical chairs, and fluff limbo.
When: Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 2-6 PM (Rain date: September 22)